The BPW Illinois Educational Foundation (BPWI-EF), with funding from the Illinois Federation of Business Women’s Clubs, Inc., (IFBWC), is committed to providing financial assistance to females in the state of Illinois to further education beyond high school. Both organizations view a lack of education as the primary barrier to self-sufficiency and an improved quality of life. For more information about both of these organizations, please visit our websites.
Established in 2018, this scholarship program proudly offers financial assistance for students returning to higher education for the coming school year. Applications must be received electronically in PDF format via email by April 15th to be considered. Winners should be notified by May 1st.
Applicant must be female, a U.S. citizen, and a resident of the state of Illinois. Applicant must have previous college/university/trade school credit, and be currently accepted by an accredited college, university, or trade school with the intentions of enrolling either part-time or full-time. Applicant must hold a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on a 4-point scale as of the completion of their last semester/term of education. While not a sole determining factor, preference may be given to qualified applicants demonstrating financial need.
Application must include a cover letter requesting consideration of application; a completed application form with all requested information, signatures, and dates; a 200-300 word essay (typed) identifying her career objectives and explaining how she plans to use this scholarship to achieve those objectives. If applicant is enrolled in a Master’s program, her essay should include how this additional education will assist her in the employment world; a higher education transcript that includes all grades received through the final semester attended; two (2) signed letters of recommendation from professional, advisory, or educational references (may include, but not limited to, teachers, coaches, sponsors, mentors, or advisers; avoid personal references like relatives, neighbors, or friends). For more information or to apply, please visit the scholarship provider's website.
